Nestled within Edmond, Oklahoma, Arcadia Lake is more than just a picturesque reservoir—it’s the lifeblood of the community, supplying a vital 12 million gallons of water daily through its low-level outlet works. However, as Edmond’s population and demand for resources continue to grow, the lake’s current capacity can no longer keep up with the city’s needs.

Forging a Path to the Future

To meet Edmond’s rising demands, a groundbreaking raw water intake system, paired with a cutting-edge pump station, is in development. At the heart of this expansion is an awe-inspiring 50-foot diameter by 72-foot deep wet well structure, reaching 43 feet below the lake’s normal pool elevation. This engineering marvel is designed to increase the current water output from 10.5 million gallons per day (mgd) to 30 mgd, with the potential to reach a staggering 65 mgd in the future—a leap that secures Edmond’s water supply for years to come.

Engineering the Blueprint of Progress

The centerpiece of the project is the construction of a new intake structure, strategically located at the northern end of the dam. Positioned where the rock meets the water, this intake system will utilize three microtunnels, extending deep into the lakebed to draw water from various depths. By pulling from different depths, the system can adapt to seasonal changes and environmental conditions, ensuring a stable and consistent water supply.

A Symphony of Pipelines

Below the surface, three 60-inch raw water pipelines will stretch toward the wet well, while two 42-inch discharge lines will run from the pump station to Edmond’s new water treatment plant. These intakes, ranging from 160 to 460 feet in length, are anchored in solid concrete foundations. The design allows the city to draw water from different levels of the lake, with intake tunnels spaced 10 feet apart vertically, providing the flexibility to select the ideal depth for water withdrawal based on current conditions.

Innovative Solutions at the Shaft

At the top of the 70-foot-deep shaft, essential components such as conduits and piping will be installed using innovative access plans, including scaffolding and precast beams. These beams will support the upper sections of the structure and allow safe access during the installation process, ensuring both safety and efficiency.

Overcoming Challenges

Integrating multiple disciplines—mechanical, electrical, and plumbing—within this complex project presents significant challenges. Effective coordination is essential to prevent conflicts between systems and ensure that all elements work in harmony. Clear communication and detailed planning are key to keeping construction on track and avoiding delays. By fostering collaboration among teams, the project will result in a seamless and high-quality water system.

On the Horizon

This project represents the convergence of high-quality materials, advanced technology, and precise engineering, all meticulously integrated to ensure the long-term reliability of Edmond’s water supply. The result is a state-of-the-art water system that not only meets but exceeds industry standards, delivering a safe, consistent, and adaptable water supply to the growing community.

As Edmond moves into the future, the Arcadia Lake water expansion stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainability and growth, ensuring that its residents and businesses have access to the essential resources they need for decades to come.